You won’t have any trouble finding a souvenir in Hawaii — they’re everywhere, from every ABC Store to the aisles of Longs Drugs. But finding a souvenir that you’ll actually want to keep (and maybe even display) is a little trickier. Sure, plastic leis and dashboard hula girls have their charm, but if you’re looking for something more stylish, thoughtful, or meaningful, you’ll need to look beyond the tourist staples.

Luckily, Hawaii is home to a growing number of design-forward boutiques and locally minded shops that offer items with real staying power — keepsakes that reflect the culture and beauty of the islands without screaming “souvenir.” Whether you’re shopping for yourself or a gift for someone back home, these three shops on Oʻahu (and other islands) offer elevated alternatives — from cozy sweatshirts to gallery-worthy art to island-inspired home goods you’ll actually use.

1. SoHa Living

SoHa Living is the ultimate stop for elevated island home goods. Short for “South of Hawaii,” the store was started by two sisters with deep roots in the islands. Their brand blends coastal style with playful, modern design — think beach-chic with a clean, curated feel.

The vibe here is less “tourist shop” and more “coastal-chic boutique”. Everything feels polished, giftable, and ready to bring a little aloha into your everyday life.

What to Look For:

  • Fabric Coasters: Made with natural-looking linen blends and soft island prints, these are lightweight, packable, and perfect for gifting.

    fabric coasters on display at SohHa Living

    Fabric coasters on display at SohHa Living

  • Hawaii Mugs: Cute mugs with cheeky local phrases like “No can,” they’re fun and functional without being over the top.

    Mugs on display at SoHa Living

    Mugs on display at SoHa Living

     

  • Hawaii Themed Napkins: Featuring tropical florals and local themes, these inexpensive paper napkins elevate a cocktail party and make a great hostess gift add-on.

    Paper napkins on display at SoHa Living

    Pick up some paper napkins for your next cocktail party

  • Dish Towels: The perfect kitchen addition, printed with pineapples, florals, or subtle “Aloha” motifs. You’ll actually want to use these at home.

    Dishtowels on display at SoHa Living

    Bring some aloha to your kitchen with SoHa Living’s dishtowels and aprons.

Why It’s Great: SoHa Living balances aesthetics and practicality. Many items are under $30, so you can grab a few for friends and still take one home for yourself.

2. Mahina Boutique

Mahina is a local women’s boutique that started in Maui and has since expanded across the islands. It’s become a go-to for women who want laid-back, stylish pieces that still feel special. The prices are reasonable, the quality is solid, and the selection is always on-trend without trying too hard.

If you’re looking for wearable souvenirs that don’t scream “tourist,” Mahina is the place. Their clothing, jewelry, and accessories often include subtle nods to Hawaii — a palm print here, a wave-inspired earring there — that make for meaningful keepsakes.

What to Look For:

  • Aloha Sweatshirt: Soft, flattering, and island-casual. It says “Aloha” in just the right way — cool enough to wear at home, but cozy enough to make it onto every redeye flight from Honolulu.

    Aloha Sweatshirt

    Aloha Sweatshirt

  • Hawaii-Inspired Earrings: You’ll find small, affordable earrings shaped like pineapples, monstera, or hibiscus flowers — not in a novelty way, but as delicate, wearable accents. Most are under $20.

    Mahina Earrings

    Mahina Earrings

Why It’s Great: Mahina gives you options that don’t look like souvenirs, but still remind you of where you’ve been. It’s perfect for gifting or treating yourself to something you’ll actually wear again.

3. Polu Gallery

Tucked into a charming storefront in Haleʻiwa on Oʻahu’s North Shore, Polu Gallery is a refreshing break from the typical art and souvenir shops. It features work from local painters, photographers, and mixed media artists who are capturing the real Hawaii — its surf, its spirit, and its beauty — in a way that’s modern and collectible.

If you’re looking for something more meaningful than a mass-produced photo or trinket, this is where you’ll find it. The gallery offers a mix of original artwork, limited-edition prints, and small-scale pieces that are easy to pack but leave a lasting impression.

What to Look For:

  • Quality Art Prints: From dreamy surf landscapes to abstract interpretations of island life, the selection is thoughtful and authentic. Many prints come in standard sizes, making them easy to pick up, pack up, and frame at home.

    Polu prints hanging on wall

    Prints that I took home and framed

     

  • Small Canvases & Mixed Media Work: If you’re checking a bag, you can even grab a ready-to-hang piece.

Why It’s Great: Buying art supports local creatives and gives you a souvenir that lasts a lifetime. Polu Gallery curates pieces that are modern and cool — no velvet dolphins here.

Final Thoughts

Souvenirs don’t have to be generic or tacky — they can be beautiful, meaningful, and truly representative of your experience. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or looking to bring a piece of Hawaii into your own home, these three stores offer keepsakes you’ll actually love.

Better yet, every item you buy supports local artists, small businesses, and makers who help define the culture and spirit of the islands. And that’s the best kind of souvenir.